The effect of elastic bandage compression on pain and function in individuals with knee Osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Compression is a tactile stimulus that can reduce pain perception by modulating tactile receptors on the skin and the speed of nerve conduction. It is widely used in combination with cryotherapy and other non-pharmacological physical agents to control musculoskeletal pain. However, there is still a lack of evidence about its possible effects on the modulation of this type of pain. This study will evaluate the effect of compression by elastic bandages on the pain and function of individuals with Knee Osteoarthritis (KO). Methodology: a blinded randomized controlled trial will be performed. Individuals with OAJ (n=90; both sexes; between 40 and 75 years) will be allocated into three groups (n=30/group): compression (submitted to compression by elastic bandage on the affected knee, 20 min, in 4 days) consecutive); Sham (submitted to the same protocol with elastic bandage but without compression); and control (waiting list without intervention). All will be evaluated one day before the start and one day after the last intervention. They will also be evaluated at 12 and 24 weeks after intervention. The main outcome will be pain intensity (visual analog scale). We will also use the Western Ontario & McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Physical Function Questionnaire (WOMAC), physical function tests (step test, sit-up chair test at 30s, 40m accelerated walk test), and the global change classification (GRC). Data analysis: The SPSS 24.0 software will be used for descriptive analysis and Kolmogorov-Smirnov, two-way ANOVA and multiple comparison tests. A confidence level of 95% and significance of 5% will be adopted. (AU)